On Thursday, TikTok announced it is testing a chatbot dubbed “Tako” that can talk to viewers about short videos and recommend content in the Philippines.
Last year, Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O)-backed OpenAI unveiled ChatGPT, the most natural chatbot ever. That sparked a rush to develop features based on game-changing generative artificial intelligence (AI), including TikTok rival Snap Inc. (SNAP.N)’s “My AI” powered by ChatGPT. Tako helps users find “entertaining and inspiring content” on TikTok.
On Thursday, Israeli app intelligence firm Watchful Technologies detected Tako on various TikTok versions on Apple Inc (AAPL.O) mobile devices.
Screenshots, and video Watchful, showed Reuters the chatbot’s ghost-shaped icon on TikTok’s UI, which users can tap while watching videos to communicate and search content.
In April, U.S. media reported that TikTok was testing a generative AI avatar creator. Chinese media indicated that parent ByteDance is working on a massive AI model, although Douyin, its Chinese TikTok, does not include AI chatbot characteristics.
Last month, TikTok filed a trademark application for “TikTok Tako” in categories including “computer software for the artificial production of human speech and text” with the USPTO.
A TikTok spokeswoman said the social media platform continually tested new tech when asked about Tako.
“In select markets, we’re testing new ways to power search and discovery on TikTok, and we look forward to learning from our community as we continue to create a safe place that entertains, inspires creativity, and drives culture,” the spokesperson said.